Those who struggle to read will have a hard time keeping themselves healthy because they can't read things like doctors' orders and prescriptions. They will be unable to effectively manage their finances, because they can't read bank statements or credit car bills.

Struggling readers will have a harder time finishing school, getting a job, and staying on the right side of the law.

• Read to kids out loud daily, starting when they are six months old.
• It doesn't always have to be books; you can pause wherever you see printed words and help your kids understand them.
• Make sure to use lots of different words when you are talking with your kids, to help build vocabulary
• Enrolling your child in a high-quality early learning program is vital

The role of parents is even more important with new, higher academic standards. It wasn't that long ago that most parents expected their kids to learn how to read in their first few years at school, but these days most teachers are expecting their students to start with some basic skills.

The sad truth is that some parents simply don't have the resources or know-how to position their kids to be good readers. In Delaware's communities with the lowest incomes, about 63 percent of kids can't meet the crucial benchmark of reading at grade level by third grade.

Overall, 52 percent of students met the state's reading benchmark. By national measures, Delaware is squarely average in reading performance.

That's why groups like Reading Assist, which places reading tutors in high-needs schools, or the United Way's "My Very Own Library" program are so crucial. If you're looking to donate to campaigns that will truly make a difference in the community, those are two worthy candidates.

If you're looking for practical tips advice and resources on how to help your child read, or if you want to learn more about what Delaware is doing to improve literacy, we invite you to attend the Imagine Delaware Literacy Festival at Dickinson High School, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 4. This free event is sponsored by The News Journal and Nemours/Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children, and is run in conjunction with the 11th annual Red Clay Family Resource Fair.

There will be lots of vendors offering help with reading and literacy issues, fun activities for kids, and readings by local authors and well-known community members.

We ought to be working for a Delaware where every kid can read when they are supposed to. That is a Delaware that would be safer, healthier and happier.

The News Journal's editorial opinions are decided by its editorial board, which is separate from the news staff.